Ireland's Lorcan Murphy announces retirement from international basketball
Lorcan Murphy of Ireland during the FIBA Men's World Cup 2027 European Pre-Qualifier against Switzerland. Picture: ©INPHO/Ben Brady
Locan Murphy has announced his retirement from international basketball at just 29.
The Griffith College Templeogue clubman played for Ireland earlier this month in their 2027 World Cup pre-qualifiers against Kosovo and Switzerland.
"Nine years and never missed a single meeting, training or game," Murphy wrote on Instagram.
"I first saw Ireland play when I was a kid, Jason Killeen and Isaac Westbrooks, along with a talented team were playing Sweden (I think) and young me was amazed at the level of talent on display. I never dreamed I could ever play at that level.
"Fast forward a few years later and I got the chance to play with both of them on the Irish team. I made the u16 team in 2010 and then there were no u18 or u20 teams for my age group.
"I was lucky enough to make the senior national team nine years ago and throughout my time on the team I have been honoured to play alongside some of the greatest talent Ireland has produced."
In October 2022, the 6 ' 2" guard suffered an accident in training which could have left him paralysed. Doctors were unsure if he'd ever play again but Murphy returned to the court in five months, defying an 18-month rehabilitation prediction.
"I know I wasn’t the best or most skilled player but I worked hard and always gave 100%," he continued in his retirement statement.
"I looked after my recovery, did two workouts a day everyday either shooting, training or gym, looked after my nutrition and everything else it took to play alongside and compete against some very high level professionals.
"I always tried to embrace my role and play within it as best I could, I hope that I have inspired youngsters to believe in themselves and to pursue their basketball journey wherever that may take them.
"I am proud to have played alongside so many great players I can now call brothers. I’m thankful for the opportunity to gain knowledge and soak up experience from amazing coaches over the years.
"A big thank you to the physio staff who looked after me over the years. And a huge thank you to my family and friends for the love and support throughout the years, travelling Europe to watch me play.
"Carmel's home cooking and lifts around the country. And of course the love and encouragement from Ali inspiriting me when I questioned myself, in her ever resolute manner.
"I am excited to see where all the young and upcoming talent can take us. Thank you to everyone I have crossed paths with and to all the fans who always turn up with positive energy.
"This chapter for me is closing but I will always remember the experience, the hardship, the work, the joy and the journey. Thank you Ireland."
Fellow Irish international, and Corkman, Jordan Blount called Murphy an "incredible servant and role model to the game". Isaac Westbrooks, one of those who lined out for Ireland when Murphy first saw them play congratulated him on a "fabulous career".
"The absolute epitome of professionalism," Westbrooks added.
"Like everyone I will miss watching the high octane highlights filled brand of basketball you display [every time] you step on the court. It’s been a pleasure to watch all these years. Legend."
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